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Accreditation & Affiliations

The American Alliance of Museums (formerly the American Association of Museums) is the one organization that supports all museums. Through advocacy and excellence, the Alliance strengthens the museum community.

The Association of Science-Technology Centers (ASTC) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization of science centers and museums dedicated to furthering public engagement with science among increasingly diverse audiences. ASTC encourages excellence and innovation in informal science learning by serving and linking its members worldwide and advancing their common goals.

In 2012, AZA-accredited institutions provided $160 million in support of approximately 2,700 conservation projects in more than 115 countries. Additionally, zoo and aquarium scientists contribute to hundreds of conservation, biology, and veterinary science publications. AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums are leaders in the protection of endangered species.

Founded in 1918, the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) is the largest international trade association for permanently situated amusement facilities worldwide. The organization represents more than 4,500 facility, supplier, and individual members from more than 97 countries.

ISES was founded in 1987 to foster enlightened performance through education while promoting ethical conduct. ISES works to join event and meeting professionals to focus on the "event as a whole" rather than its individual parts. ISES has grown to involve over 5,500 members active in over 50 chapters throughout the world.

Smithsonian Affiliations is a national outreach program that develops long-term, collaborative partnerships with museums, educational, and cultural organizations to enrich communities with Smithsonian resources. There are more than 180 Smithsonian Affiliates in more than 40 states, Puerto Rico and Panama.